With nuanced and gracefully crafted compositions, John Samaras proves once again that a trapeze can make us all smile
(9.4)
The title of John Samaras’ record Trapeze Smile is a cathartic reflection on the childlike innocence of visiting the circus for the first time. Viewing their work through this lens, one is awed by the patience John had in waiting until adulthood to produce a work based on the experience of seeing clowns, elephants and the flying trapeze artists as a child. Such is the experience of listening to Samaras’ music; vibrant, peaceful and downright chill.
On “Fallacy, Defined,” John does just that: define fallacy. Not through words per say, but through the feelings his music evokes. One is instantly in awe of the sense of empathy and compassion that soaks the tracks. It is but one of many gems on this disc.
With soothing and beautifully orchestrated arrangements, Trapeze Smile features a handful of excellently crafted tunes which are evocative of the best works of Beck, Radiohead and Sufjan Stevens. Blissfully strummed guitar chords accompany John’s ethereal and unique voice. His music reminds me of another band that I’m passionate about, the Shy Boyz, who also make great music.
In summary, I’d be lying if I said this wasn’t a contender for my AOTY list.